Congratulations to Margarita, our September 2017 Volunteer of the Month! Margarita has been volunteering for the Meals Program for nearly two years, and we’re so excited to have her as part of the Inspiration Corporation community!
How did you hear about Inspiration Corporation?
I was searching for places to volunteer for in Chicago online. Inspiration Corporation was one of the places that came up in my search. Even though I live near the Indiana border I decided to give it a try and I love it!
What is the most enjoyable part of volunteering for you?
The most enjoyable part of volunteering is seeing the participants enjoy the food I prepare for them. I also enjoy working with the people that I get to work with in the kitchen. Working with them makes the experience even more enjoyable.
What aspect of volunteering are you most excited about?
I am excited about coming up with a different dish to offer the participants that they normally wouldn’t have at a meal. My mom sometimes makes her famous hash brown casserole for me to take for the breakfast shift. My sister sometimes makes a cake or something sweet for me to take to the participants so they can have it with their morning coffee.
What is the most challenging?
The most challenging is making sure you have enough food prepped to serve each participant the meal they ordered.
What is your volunteer background?
Aside from volunteering at Inspiration Corporation I am also part of the White Sox Volunteer Corps. Being part of the volunteer corps I have had the opportunity to volunteer at different organizations throughout the city. I have volunteered at food partries, playground builds, school clean ups, charity events, etc. My favorite place to volunteer at being part of the volunteer corps is volunteering for the meal program at the Ronal McDonald House. I also volunteer for different race companies as part of their team to help with packet pick up or on race day.
Why do you volunteer?
I volunteer because I love giving back to the community and my city. I grew up not having much but my parents always taught me that you can always give a helping hand to those in need. Every little bit helps.
Describe one of the most interesting experiences you’ve had as a volunteer.
One of the most interesting experiences I have had was with my mom. The day she came to vounteer in the kitchen I told her you are going to love it and will want to come as often as possible. Wouldn’t you know it she did.
What are your hobbies, besides volunteering?
Running in races and traveling.
What have you learned from your volunteer experience?
I have learned that if we all give back no matter how much we can make a difference. Volunteering our time helps change the society and world we live in one kind act at a time.